These include his former partner, Gemma Richens, who is the mother of his 15-year-old son Zac.

Gemma, 40, paid tribute to Joe and spoke glowingly of him as a father, a businessman and a charity fundraiser.

She said: “Joe was a generous man and I can’t really remember him ever saying ‘no’ to anyone.

“He often gave supplies to homeless charities in Coventry and was also a great supporter of the NSPCC and Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice.

“He would always be involved with charity events and garden parties, and more often that not Zac would perform at the events as he is a great piano player and this was one of the many reason why Joe was very proud of him.

“He also worked around the clock for his business and was so passionate about it.

“He always wanted to have quality produce and smart shops and he was really proud of the business.”

Her words were echoed by their son Zac who said that his dad was “an inspiration and a great role model” and he will “miss him greatly”.

Joe Richards pictured in 2009.

Gemma added that Joe was also “very fond” of her two children with her new partner, ten-year-old daughter Xanthe and son Tate, who is eight.

As well as his successful fruit and veg shops in Radford, Cheylesmore, Ball Hill and Earlsdon, Joe owned stores in Warwickshire, Birmingham and Staffordshire, making him one of the biggest independent greengrocers in Britain.